Once thought of as Europe's best kept secret, Portugal is now one of the most popular destinations for travellers. Here are the best places to visit across all of its main regions... and where to skip.
* This article was originally published here
Monday, March 31, 2025
I've lived in Portugal for 23 years: Here are the best places to go for a glorious holiday... and where you DEFINITELY need to avoid
Once thought of as Europe's best kept secret, Portugal is now one of the most popular destinations for travellers. Here are the best places to visit across all of its main regions... and where to skip.
* This article was originally published here
Sunday, March 30, 2025
I've worked at Cadbury World since it opened - one surprise celebrity visit drew so many crowds you couldn't move
As the Bourneville site prepares to celebrate its 35th anniversary, MailOnline Travel is taking a trip down memory lane to look back at some of the attraction's most unforgettable moments.
* This article was originally published here
Saturday, March 29, 2025
Friday, March 28, 2025
Italian authorities are paying people 100,000 euros to move to a beautiful mountain region - but there's a catch
Italians are being given the chance to relocate to the picturesque and peaceful Trentino region in the north of the country - and they could be paid a huge sum to do so.
* This article was originally published here
Thursday, March 27, 2025
Wednesday, March 26, 2025
Malaga turns white after freak winter storm with roads turning to rivers as Spain's wild weather continues
Striking images and footage emerging from the holiday hotspot have shown streets submerged in floodwater and heavy hail crashing down from the grey skies.
* This article was originally published here
Tuesday, March 25, 2025
Monday, March 24, 2025
Tourism New Zealand Launches Playable NZ Destination In Minecraft World Via Mana Whenua Groups, Warner Bros & Mojang Studios - B&T
Sunday, March 23, 2025
We live in the so-called 'best town in Britain,' but there is a downside: Locals reveal what life is REALLY like in lauded market town
The chocolate box charm of Saffron Walden, in Essex, has failed to win over some people in the town who have bemoaned the poor broadband connection and mobile phone reception.
* This article was originally published here
Saturday, March 22, 2025
I paid £2,100 for a flight to China - but I made one tiny mistake and they are now trying to charge me £9,000 for a new ticket
Despairing business owner Alex Coombes, 39, from Worthing, West Sussex, says his flight booking to China 'turned into a nightmare' after he made one small error that could cost him thousands.
* This article was originally published here
Friday, March 21, 2025
Britain's 'best places to live' in 2025 are revealed - does YOURS make the list?
A new study lists the best places in the UK to live - have a look at our interactive graphic and see if your hometown makes the list.
* This article was originally published here
Thursday, March 20, 2025
I will never fly Ryanair again after they charged me £60 due to a ridiculous hidden rule
Kay, a 32-year-old from London , says she was 'made to feel targeted' by the airline. The passenger was flying from Dublin to London Stansted when the incident occurred.
* This article was originally published here
Wednesday, March 19, 2025
Tuesday, March 18, 2025
CEBU ITINERARY: 15 Best CEBU TOURIST SPOTS and Things to Do (Travel Guide Blog for First-timers)
Looking for top things to do in Cebu for your Cebu itinerary? Read on this comprehensive Cebu Travel Guide Blog and find out the top tourist spots and activities in Cebu with sample itinerary, list of recommended hotels & resorts, Cebu tour packages and practical travel tips to help you plan your trip.
Cebu one of the most visited tourist destinations in the Philippines. Dubbed as the "Queen
* This article was originally published here
* This article was originally published here
Monday, March 17, 2025
Sunday, March 16, 2025
The Hard Choices of a Frequent Flyer: Lufthansa First Class vs. British Airways Business Class
For many, choosing between two airlines comes down to price, schedule, or frequent flyer miles award. But for those of us who fly frequently, especially in premium cabins, the decision-making process can be far more nuanced. Especially when I am sitting on enough points at my disposal. Case in point: the internal struggle between experiencing Lufthansa’s legendary First Class and the famed Frankfurt First Class Terminal versus flying on my preferred day in British Airways’ Business Class, with the added perk of world-class lounges at London Heathrow’s Terminal 3.
Decisions, Decisions. Poor more LOL.
The Case for Lufthansa First Class
Lufthansa’s First Class experience is top notch, particularly for those who appreciate seamless, luxurious air travel. From the moment you arrive at Frankfurt Airport (FRA), the journey becomes a meticulously curated experience, including porch transfers! Yet as I would be leaving from an outstation. Flying First class from Sao Paulo would be nice, but the ground game would just be mediocre. Yet I know once I get to FRA for my layover everything would improve and the journey aboard the 747-8i would be top notch.
The First Class Terminal at FRA
One of the most compelling reasons to choose Lufthansa First is the Frankfurt First Class Terminal (FCT). More than just a lounge, this standalone terminal offers a private security checkpoint, fine dining, relaxation areas, personal assistants, and the thrill of being driven across the tarmac to your awaiting aircraft in a Porsche or Mercedes. Few experiences match the exclusivity and efficiency of FCT, making it one of the best pre-flight indulgences in the world. Or in this case, the best layover experience. I could time my flights to have up to a 6 hours, allowing me all the time needed to relax in the lounge. I could even take a bath or nap! As the lounge has great suites for both.
Plus I could get another fun duck for my collection…Yeah more shit I don’t need, but collect for some reason!
The Onboard Experience
Lufthansa’s First Class product is consistently praised for its elegant simplicity and exceptional service. I would be spoiled with Caviar and 2005 Noble Brut champagne. Flying first class, the food and wine is a big upgrade over any other class of service. Lufthansa’s First Class seat is seat is larger, but not really private. It’s regardless an upgrade, despite being a dated product.
With a spacious, open suite design, top-tier bedding, and an extensive wine and champagne selection, it’s a haven of comfort. The personal attention from the crew and the understated German efficiency make it an unbeatable experience for those who appreciate refined luxury. Plus GRU – FRA is full 11 hour flight. Meaning I could truly enjoy the product and still rest. Something I rarely get to do when flying from Chicago or DC with Lufthansa.
Decisions, Decisions.
The Case for British Airways Business Class
While Lufthansa’s First Class is undoubtedly a premium experience, there’s something to be said for flying on my preferred day, even if it means “downgrading” to British Airways Business Class. And, in this case, the lounge options at London Heathrow Terminal 3 (T3) are strong enough to make up for it. Which makes me think that flying British Airways wouldn’t be all that bad. The real downside is that plane.
British Airways flies 10 weekly flights between London and Sao Paulo. 7 flights a week are on the new A350 with the new Club world seats. 3 flights a week are on an outdated 787-8 with the previous generation business class seat. A product that I refer to as the Economy class seat that lays flat. I HATE the seat. Yet, when traveling on points, it’s hard to complain, and the A350 flight never became available.
Furthermore, I utilized Alaska Airlines miles to book this flight. This means I will email elite qualifying miles even though I am flying on award points. This is handy to help regain status towards 2026.
Lounge Hopping at LHR T3
One of the best-kept open secrets among frequent flyers is that T3 at Heathrow houses some of the best Oneworld lounges in the world. While BA’s own lounges are solid enough, the real stars are the Cathay Pacific First Class Lounge and the Qantas Lounge:
- Cathay Pacific First Class Lounge: A haven of tranquility with à la carte dining, fine champagne, and a much calmer atmosphere than BA’s busy lounges. The lounge hosts awesome tarmac views and the dan dan noodles and dim sum lunch is great.
- Qantas Lounge: An energetic, stylish space featuring a gin bar, an excellent buffet, and a made-to-order hot food station. Perfect for those who prefer a livelier pre-flight experience. The lounge has the food and options out before their flight to Perth in the morning, or during the evening hours before the Singapore Kangaroo route departs. I would be able to visit during this time.
There are also the American Airlines First Class lounge and the British Airways First class lounge at LHR T3. I would likely swing by them so Diego could see them. Yet the majority of our time would be in the better of these four options. Yet these lounges are NOT better than the First Class terminal. So it’s not enough to skew my decisions.
The British Airways Business Class Experience
While British Airways Business Class (Club World) doesn’t hold a candle to Lufthansa First Class, the newer Club Suite is a significant improvement with a fully flat bed, direct aisle access, and a closing door for privacy. Yet, again unless there is a last minute plane swap, I would not be on a plane with the new seat. British Airways may not be as indulgent as Lufthansa First, but it does the job efficiently, especially when combined with great lounges and a schedule that better fits my itinerary.
The Dilemma: Experience vs. Convenience
So, which option wins? It’s a tough call. 100K miles for Luthansa First or 70K miles for British Airways Business?
- If I’m prioritizing the ultimate luxury experience, Lufthansa First Class (and the Frankfurt First Class Terminal) is a no-brainer.
- If I’m focusing on maximizing my time and schedule while still enjoying premium perks, British Airways Business Class through LHR T3 becomes highly appealing.
- If I focus on status, British Airways wins again
In the end, it often comes down to the purpose of the trip, how much I value the extra comfort of First Class for that particular flight, and whether the allure of Porsche transfers and FCT outweighs the appeal of some of the best lounges at Heathrow and status. I know what most of you are thinking. FLY LUTHANSA STUPID!
For now, I’ll keep debating though. After all, these are the kinds of “problems” that make frequent flyer life so rewarding.
Read the rest of this article at The Hard Choices of a Frequent Flyer: Lufthansa First Class vs. British Airways Business Class.
* This article was originally published here
Friday, March 14, 2025
Thursday, March 13, 2025
Is this the most glamorous hotel in the Caribbean? Inside the licence-to-amaze property used as a filming location for Casino Royale that's a favourite of the Hollywood crowd
The Martini Bar at The Ocean Club, A Four Seasons Resort, Bahamas, is where Bond orders his first 'shaken, not stirred' drink of the 2006 movie.
* This article was originally published here
Wednesday, March 12, 2025
Tuesday, March 11, 2025
Lindblad, SilverSea & Scenic Eclipse Expeditions to South Georgia for less than $19,000!
For those seeking an adventure unlike any other, South Georgia and the Sandwich Islands are one of the most breathtaking and remote destinations on the planet. Often overshadowed by its more famous neighbor, Antarctica, this rugged island in the Southern Ocean offers an unparalleled experience of wildlife, history, and raw natural beauty.
Yet nearly anyone who has been to the Antarctic Peninsula, will quickly learn that they missed the best part, the islands of South Georgia! After my own first trip to Antarctica, I quickly regretted not visiting South Georgia and just a few months later I too was on my way back to the Southern Ocean to visit the British Overseas Territory of South Georgia. Trips to South Georgia often cost over $30,000 per person. Yet I have multiple exclusive deals to travel to South Georgia in 2025 or 2026 for up to 35% off!
South Georgia is often referred to as the “Serengeti of the Southern Ocean” due to its incredible abundance of wildlife. It offers more marine diversity than the Galapagos! The island is home to some of the world’s largest colonies of king penguins. A visit to South Georgia allows one to witness hundreds of thousands of penguins carpeting the beaches in places like St. Andrews Bay and Salisbury Plain. In addition to king penguins, you will find vast populations of rock hoppers and macaroni penguins. It’s also home to an endless number of elephant seals and fur seals sprawled along the shores.
The waters surrounding South Georgia are also teeming with life. A visit here is really unforgettable. Witness humpback, minke, and southern right whales too, making for spectacular whale-watching opportunities. The sheer volume and diversity of wildlife make every moment on the island feel like stepping into a David Attenborough documentary. And now, you can visit South Georgia with these private sales at some of the LOWEST prices ever!
ALL of these deals are available with pricing on my Private group page. Click to join!
Lindblad Antarctica and South Georgia Sale
Lindblad in partnership with National Geographic offers an amazing opportunity to visit Antarctica, South Georgia and the Falkland Islands on 21 day trips. Lindblad small and nimble ships offer luxury experiences with nearly all inclusions. Elevating their offerings in the last several years, Lindblad is not only the most experience in Antarctica, they now offer among some of the best ships. Plus, Lindblad is really all inclusive now offering open bars, Wi-fi, staff gratuities and more in the base price.
Due to an exclusive agreement, I cannot publish the prices online. Yet I can tell you they are below $19K on some trips! Space is limited, message me for more details
The following departures are on sale. The rate below is BEFORE discounts. My discount is often over $10,000 in savings per person, it’s just so great I cannot post the prices to the masses.
| Departure Date | Voyage Nights |
Itinerary’ | Cat 1 | Cat 2 | Cat 3 | Cat 4 | Cat 5 | Cat 6 Suite | Cat 7 Suite |
| 18-Oct-25 | 20 | Antarctica, South Georgia and the Falklands | $28,304 | $31,802 | $32,784 | $35,251 | $44,063 | $51,236 | $56,607 |
| 28-Oct-25 | 20 | Antarctica, South Georgia and the Falklands | $31,128 | $32,685 | $40,855 | $42,490 | $44,190 | sold out | $58,440 |
| 30-Oct-25 | 20 | Antarctica, South Georgia and the Falklands | sold out | $36,777 | $45,962 | $47,801 | $49,713 | sold out | $65,745 |
| 19-Nov-25 | 20 | Antarctica, South Georgia and the Falklands | $36,477 | $38,294 | sold out | $49,783 | $51,773 | sold out | $68,473 |
For those of you who don’t have as much time, but still want to see Antarctica, you can also visit Antarctica with Lindblad National Geographic. Even these sales are offering HUGE discounts. Standard pricing below, my price is…too good to publish!
| Departure Date | Voyage Nights |
Itinerary’ | Cat 1 | Cat 2 | Cat 3 | Cat 4 | Cat 5 | Cat 6 Suite | Cat 7 Suite |
| 29-Dec-25 | 10 | Journey To Antarctica: The White Continent | sold out | $17,814 | sold out | $23,158 | $24,085 | SOLD OUT | $31,852 |
| 17-Dec-25 | 10 | Journey To Antarctica: The White Continent | sold out | sold out | $18,339 | $19,072 | $19,835 | SOLD OUT | $26,231 |
| 27-Nov-25 | 10 | Journey To Antarctica: The White Continent | sold out | sold out | $17,829 | $18,542 | $19,284 | $22,177 | $25,503 |
| 17-Nov-25 | 10 | Journey To Antarctica: The White Continent | sold out | sold out | $20,334 | $22,708 | $26,182 | $29,950 | $33,425 |
Scenic Eclipse Antarctica & South Georgia Deals + Snow Hill!
The World’s first discovery yacht and ONLY 6 star ship in Antarctica is offering among the best prices I have ever seen to Antarctica. Prices are so low, I am in awe of this deal. Scenic also offers a 100% all inclusive trip with no hidden fees. The only thing that really costs a dime more on this ship are access to the helicopters or submersibles. Access to the premium whiskey bar, with over 150 types of whiskey, 100% free! Johnny Walker Blue Label, Hibiki, Whistle Pig and more, all included. Plus every room is a veranda suite and nearly the largest at sea close to 400 sq feet or larger! Not to mention Scenic rooms have personal butlers to ensure the best experience while traveling the polar regions. There is really nothing else like it in the world.
Prices are subject to change but are often 10-30K below Scenic’s pricing. Again, I cannot publish the pricing here but I can tell you which ones I can offer deep discounts on. Interested? Email me for more details. Scenic Eclipse price is often over 35K per person. My price starts in the low 20sK per person.
| Itinerary Name | Cruise Nights | From | To | Departure Date |
| Antarctica, South Georgia & Falkland Islands | 21 | Buenos Aires | Ushuaia | 10/22/2025 |
| Antarctica, South Georgia & Falkland Islands | 18 | Ushuaia | Ushuaia | 11/22/2025 |
| Antarctica, South Georgia & Falkland Islands _ | 21 | Buenos Aires | Ushuaia | 11/10/2026 |
Trips from Buenos Aires also include a stop at the famous Snow Hill Island. One of the ONLY places to see Emperor Penguins! This alone is a reason to jump on board with Scenic cruises. Allowing you to see EVERY Type of penguin in the Southern Ocean.
Like South Georgia, there are some awesome deals to Antarctica on Scenic Eclipse. Both to the Antarctica Peninsula and to the the Ross sea. Even trips from New Zealand and Australia, where you can see the less explored portion of Antarctica! These prices are also several thousands off. If you want to see Antarctica in style, this is the way to do it and the BEST Prices
| Ship | Itinerary Name | Cruise Nights | From | To | Departure Date |
| Scenic Eclipse | Antarctica in Depth | 11 | Ushuaia | Ushuaia | 11/11/2025 |
| Scenic Eclipse | Antarctica in Depth | 11 | Ushuaia | Ushuaia | 12/10/2025 |
| Scenic Eclipse | Antarctica in Depth | 14 | Ushuaia | Ushuaia | 12/21/2025 |
| Scenic Eclipse II | Antarctica’s Ross Sea: Majestic Ice & Wildlife | 23 | Hobart | Dunedin | 1/6/2026 |
| Scenic Eclipse II | Antarctica’s Ross Sea: Majestic Ice & Wildlife | 23 | Dunedin | Dunedin | 1/29/2026 |
SilverSea Antarctica & South Georgia Deals
Silversea has three ships in Antarctica now. I have exclusive deals on the Silver Cloud and Silver Wind in Antarctica. There are even fly in options available on the Silver Endeavour for 2027. We can offer around fantastic savings, again just TOO good to publish. These deals go ALL The way through 2027! Note our extra discounts are only on Port to Port fares. Meaning you must get yourself to Santiago. After that, a hotel night stay is included at the Ritz Carlton and charter flights to and from Puerto Williams, Chile.
| Voyage | Sail Date | Nights | Emb | Deb | Area | Sub Area |
| WI251005021 | 5-Oct-25 | 21 | Buenos aires | Puerto williams | EANT | Peninsula & Falklands & S. Georgia |
| WI251105018 | 5-Nov-25 | 18 | Santiago, Chile | Santiago, Chile | EANT | Peninsula & Falklands & S. Georgia |
| E4251108018 | 8-Nov-25 | 18 | Santiago, Chile | Santiago, Chile | EANT | Peninsula & Falklands & S. Georgia |
| WI251221018 | 21-Dec-25 | 18 | Santiago, Chile | Santiago, Chile | EANT | Peninsula & Falklands & S. Georgia |
| WI261020015 | 20-Oct-26 | 15 | Santiago, Chile | Santiago, Chile | EANT | Peninsula & South Georgia |
| WI261104018 | 4-Nov-26 | 18 | Santiago, Chile | Santiago, Chile | EANT | Peninsula & Falklands & S. Georgia |
| E4261109015 | 9-Nov-26 | 15 | Santiago, Chile | Santiago, Chile | EANT | Peninsula & South Georgia |
| WI261122018 | 22-Nov-26 | 18 | Santiago, Chile | Santiago, Chile | EANT | Peninsula & Falklands & S. Georgia |
| E4261124015 | 24-Nov-26 | 15 | Santiago, Chile | Santiago, Chile | EANT | Peninsula & South Georgia |
| E4261221018 | 21-Dec-26 | 18 | Santiago, Chile | Santiago, Chile | EANT | Peninsula & Falklands & S. Georgia |
| WI261222015 | 22-Dec-26 | 15 | Santiago, Chile | Santiago, Chile | EANT | Peninsula & South Georgia |
| EV270304021 | 4-Mar-27 | 21 | Santiago, Chile | Buenos aires | EFLY | Peninsula & Falklands & S. Georgia |
Like the other companies, we also have discounts on nearly every trip to Antarctica on Silversea. So many I cannot even list them all. If you want to save 10-30% off silversea prices, or maybe even more, then you need to be booking via Scott & Thomas Travel.
Bottom Line
A trip to South Georgia is unlike any other. I will never forget my trip own trip to South Georgia and I yearn for the day that I can go back. One of the greatest appeals of South Georgia is its remoteness. With no permanent human population and strict visitor regulations, the island remains an unspoiled paradise. Only a handful of expedition ships visit South Georgia each season, meaning you will likely have its vast landscapes and incredible wildlife almost entirely to yourself. The strict conservation efforts ensure that this pristine environment remains protected for future generations to enjoy.
If you are looking for the best deals to Antarctica, there is only way place to get them. By contact me (Rocky) you can save tens of thousands of dollars and visit Antarctica and South Georgia on the most comfortable expedition ships in the business. Do not delay, contact me today.
I will leave you with a reel from my own trip to South Georgia!
View this post on Instagram
Read the rest of this article at Lindblad, SilverSea & Scenic Eclipse Expeditions to South Georgia for less than $19,000!.
* This article was originally published here
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